How To Prove That You’re Lovable
When it comes to getting projects financed, the first money in is always the hardest. Someone has to take a risk that the project is feasible. But once they’re in, others follow, as you’ve proven your fundability. I’ve wondered if that’s what people (mistakenly) assume about spouses, that at least one person finds you lovable. What’s your take?
Image by Rasha Kahil
In Defense of Ugly Chic
In L.A, where the uniform is predictably Hollywood, favoring long, straight hair and girly clothes (or a look like you’ve just come back from the gym), it takes courage to wear lace-up shoes, anything baggy or have your locks cropped short. I’ve adapted a bit to my habitat, having introduced a few tight tees. But I stay strong. Oxfords are still among the most favorite of my collection (and what I wore when photographed for the Washington Post). This Prada skirt is from an upcoming show at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, dedicated to the bold and sometimes, ugly chic of designers Elsa Schiaparelli and Miuccia Prada.
OK Cupid. Game On.
And then, I came across these (actual) screen names. Give me strength.
rureadylicious
rureadyformenow
danthemancan (shirtless in photo)
you4meandme4you
mistahmonkey
bimbo11 (shirtless in photo)
psychicmedium
and my favorite –
whatsthepoint
Illustration by Gemma Correll
(Not) Getting Married Today
From Company by Stephen Sondheim, one of my heroes, who is 82 today. Lyrics follow:
Things Not to Worry About
Above is an excerpt from a letter F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote to his daughter at camp in 1933. It’s a good bookend to my recent post about fears. I’m adding to his list. What would you include?
Don’t worry about having enough friends on Facebook
Don’t worry about how much chocolate is too much
Don’t worry about wrinkles
Don’t worry about the relationship between a short haircut and getting a date
Don’t worry about being single
How To Get To Paradise
As a short term strategy, see yesterday. Any ideas for the long term, are greatly appreciated.
Photo by Robert Adams from Interstate 25, Eden Colorado, 1968.
Top 10 Comfort Foods
Chicken Pot Pie*
Macaroni and Cheese
Chocolate Chip Cookie*
Mashed potatoes
Pizza*
Meatloaf
Spaghetti Bolognese*
Bagel and cream cheese
Roasted red peppers
Vodka martini*
* I’m stocking up on comfort. These are currently stowed in my freezer.
Which foods do you turn to for comfort?
Snickers by Maira Kalman
What’s Your Biggest Fear About Being Single?
I could give a hundred examples that have crossed my mind through the years, from the trivial to the profound. At the time, each one has felt utterly consequential. Whether it’s New Year’s Eve without a date, or standing alone at my mother’s grave, the first step is to name it. What are yours?
Image: Stefanie Posavec
About this Site
FIRST PERSON SINGULAR is a guide to surviving, thriving and sometimes just getting through a single day. Created by Wendy Braitman (more…)
Follow First Person Singular
Greatest Hits
